Full-Time Job Benefits to Look for

With graduation on the horizon for many college seniors (or even while it’s still far in the distance for college freshmen), the idea of securing a full-time job can bring on a whole host of conflicting emotions: shock, amazement, fear, worry, excitement, anxiety … the list goes on and on.

However, the good news seems to outweigh the bad in this situation: full-time jobs often come with a number of benefits, and it is entirely possible to find a job that offers the right benefits for you, no matter what field you want to pursue. What’s more, full-time jobs usually offer more benefits than do part-time jobs — further incentive to work full-time.

Check out the following list of full-time job benefits to keep an eye out for, which are useful to keep in mind when it’s actually time to embark on the job hunt.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is typically offered to full-time employees but usually not to those who work part-time. As healthcare plans can be a bit complicated sometimes, it’s important to do your research on the details of the plan being offered by the company, so that you are aware of all the health-related benefits you’ll have access to.

Retirement Plan

According to idealistcareers.org, Sections 403(b) and 401(k) are the most common retirement plans. Again, when considering potential job offers, finding out the specifics of the retirement plan being offered by the company is of utmost importance.

More Vacation Days and Paid Sick Leave

Compared to part-time workers, full-time employees typically receive a greater number of vacation days and sick days/paid time off throughout the year. So, while you may be logging more hours on the job per week, you’ll have the opportunity to take your vacation days on a more flexible schedule — whether all at once at the end of the year or spread out, whatever best suits you.

However, this is not to say that as a full-time employee you will automatically have an abundance of vacation days and paid time off. Usually, the amount of vacation time you receive depends on how long you’ve been with the company.

Discounts on Certain Products

While this particular benefit varies depending on the company, many full-time employees receive discounts on certain products. If you get excited at the prospect of having a reduced phone bill or being offered discounted prices on different kinds of technology, this benefit is certainly something to look forward to.

Gym or Fitness Center

According to youngadultmoney.com, a gym or fitness center is another perk that full-time employees can enjoy. Admittedly, this won’t excite everyone. However, for those who make it a habit to go to the gym regularly but often struggle to squeeze in a workout before or after work, having a gym or fitness center at your workplace can certainly make your life much more convenient.

If you are interested in discovering other benefits that employers might offer, the United States Department of Labor defines a number of topics (e.g. family and medical leave, holidays) that can provide a clear idea of what is considered necessary for employers to offer by federal law.